Brr, is that a chill we feel in the air? As November descends, so does the impending winter weather and the below-freezing temperatures early in the morning. Although you may be thinking about ways to keep yourself warm, don’t forget your furry friend in the process. Your dog may be wearing a winter coat, but that doesn’t mean she’s immune to the cold of a Treasure Valley winter.
In fact, dogs are susceptible to hypothermia, just like humans. When you spend an afternoon in the foothills or frolicking in the winter snow with your dog, you should be aware of and look out for signs of hypothermia. Here’s what you should know about the dangers of severe cold to your dog this winter.
Hypothermia in Dogs
First, it’s essential to expel a myth. It is never safe to leave your dog in the car, even during the winter. Many dog owners assume that the dangerous time of the year to leave their dog unattended in the car in summer due to the concerns of overheating. While summer heat does pose a threat to your dog in a more immediate way than the cold, hypothermia is still a genuine threat. Think of it this way: in the summer, you car turns into an over and in the winter, your car turns into a freezer. Would you leave you dog in a freeze? No, because hypothermia can be fatal, and even when it isn’t, it can lead to several severe complications. Don’t leave your dog unattended in a car, and if you see a dog left alone in a vehicle, find the owner immediately or call the Idaho Humane Society or the police.
What to Look For
A dog’s average body temperature is generally between 101 and 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit. When a dog’s body temperature dips anywhere below 100 degrees Fahrenheit, this is considered hypothermia. If a dog’s temperature stays this low for long, it can lead to hypothermia, the accompanying complications, and even death.
Dogs often experience hypothermia when they are neglected outside during cold snaps, either left outside in a kennel or a backyard for long periods of time while it’s cold. If it’s too cold for you to stay out long, it’s too cold for your dog.
The signs and symptoms of hypothermia are important to catch early on before your dog has experienced potentially fatal side effects.
- Shivering and trembling that suddenly stops
- Lethargy and weakness
- Cold skin and fur
- A low body temperature
- Decreased heart rate
- Dilation of the pupils
- Blue gums and inner eyelids
- Difficulty walking
- Difficulty breathing
- Eventual stupor, unconsciousness, or coma
How to Keep Your Dog Safe
If you head out to play in the snow or let your dog run around outside in cold temperatures, watch your dog’s behavior. Keep them inside during cold nights, and avoid leaving them unattended outside and do not leave them in a vehicle during the winter. If your dog is wet from playing in the snow, bring them inside near a source of heat, even if they seem to be having a good time. Some experts suggest preparing your dog for the cold by putting them in a sweater or jacket and using booties for winter outings. You may also consider applying cooking spray to your dog’s paws and legs to prevent snow accumulation.
If you have any questions about keeping your dog safe and healthy this winter, you can check out our winter safety tips ebook.
